What is the function of a boiler's damper?

The function of a boiler's damper is to control the flow of air into the combustion chamber. This is crucial for maintaining the proper combustion process, as the correct amount of air must mix with fuel to ensure efficient burning and optimal performance. By adjusting the damper, operators can regulate the air intake, which impacts the combustion temperature, efficiency, and emissions. Proper air control also helps in managing the boiler's operational stability, providing better fuel usage and reduced operational costs.

Other options refer to different aspects of boiler operation that do not pertain to the damper's function. For example, measuring water quality is a separate system that ensures the boiler water is suitable for safe and efficient operation. Enhancing thermal efficiency of the feedwater pertains to heat exchangers or economizers, which work to improve overall thermal efficiency rather than directly controlling air flow. The prevention of backflow of steam is related to safety measures and is managed by different components like check valves rather than the damper itself. Each of these functions is important in boiler operation, but they do not equate to the role of a damper in managing air flow.